Head-to-head info
There’s a rich history between these two programs. Bama won a nailbiter by a score of 34-28 last season in Tuscaloosa, but the Volunteers were victorious in 2022, 52-49. Prior to that, the Crimson Tide had won 15 in a row against Tennessee. This one should be entertaining considering both teams are 5-1 and very close in their respective rankings.
Alabama needs to show out
The Tide were ranked first in the country at one point after a red hot start which saw them beat Georgia in Week 5 behind a massive performance from Milroe. However, things took a turn for the worst after that. Bama was upset by Vanderbilt in Week 6, which dropped their ranking. The victory over South Carolina wasn’t exactly convincing, either.
Bama was outgained 374-313 and Milroe was sloppy with the football, getting picked off twice. This contest was close the entire time, with the Tide holding a 14-12 lead at halftime. The Gamecocks gave them a run for their money. Milroe once again did his job though despite the mistakes, going 16 for 23 for 209 yards and a TD. The quarterback also ran for two touchdowns.
While this won’t be an easy game, Alabama must prove themselves here and put forward their best. Vanderbilt was an opponent they should’ve beaten while South Carolina should’ve never been that competitive against the Crimson Tide. Considering their rich history of success against Tennessee, Bama will be feeling confident. They’re a 3-point favorite at Sports Interaction.
Tennessee offense needs to be better
The Vols have been solid offensively this season, ranking 13th in total yards, 11th in rushing yards, and ninth in points. However, over the last few weeks, it’s been a much different story against better opponents in Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Florida. They haven’t scored more than 25 points in these three SEC matchups. Tennessee also didn’t reach 20 points in regulation in the last two contests.
Quarterback Nico Iamaleava has not been great in these games. He completed just 16 of 26 passes for 169 yards for no TDs and an interception against the Gator. Luckily, Dylan Sampson destroyed Florida on the ground, rushing for 112 yards and three touchdowns. The Volunteers were outgained 361-312 but thanks to Sampson, they managed to come out with the victory.
Iamaleava’s play will be an X-factor on Saturday. He can be slow in the pocket and tends to hold onto the football too long. If he does that against Alabama, it will be bad news. The Crimson Tide has numerous top-notch defenders upfront who will punish the freshman. If their pass rush does give him trouble, expect Tennessee to focus on their run game again. The Vols are a slim underdog at online betting sites.
